Today we begin Holy Week, when we walk beside Jesus during the long and painful journey of His Passion, Death and Resurrection. Today we read the account of the Passion, and it can seem as long as this week. We don’t like to face the hard, the difficult and the painful, but if we want to grow, it is necessary.
One thing that strikes me is how they ripped off Jesus’ clothes before crucifying Him. He was a person who respected Himself and others. He was a man of modesty, and they left him hanging there naked. I can’t imagine the humiliation He suffered, all for us… at the same time it makes me think of how our society no longer values modesty, and it makes me even more sad.
We should dress appropriately according to where we are, but we should always have respect for ourselves and others. A phrase from the philosopher Confucius comes to mind: “Respect yourself so that others will respect you.” Also, the second great commandment our Lord gave us is “Love your neighbor as yourself.” Many phrases from different sources could be analyzed more deeply regarding this topic and conclusions can be drawn.
I once heard a priest say in one of his homilies, “Girls come to church naked and boys come in shorts and sandals!” It may sound harsh, but the reality is that we should go to church to seek God, not a boyfriend or more attention by wearing short clothing, showing more skin than necessary or very short or tight shirts that leave nothing to the imagination. I have even noticed how uncomfortable many girls are, pulling down on their skirts or shorts to see if they will stretch any further.
Although all this may be controversial, it seems to me like sin at its finest. I understand that we are all different and not everyone has the same intentions, but dressing like this can be a temptation for those around them and a poor example for younger girls.
If we leave the church environment and go out into the “real world”, many will view them as sexual objects, a means to satisfy the flesh. There are many wolves in sheep’s clothing looking for their prey. So if you dress provocatively at church what can you expect when you are out in the world? Do not wait until you have a horrible experience to dress modestly. Although many think they know everything when they are young, they should listen to their closest relatives and true friends who will tell them the truth.
In conclusion, love yourselves more, so that others will respect you. Look at Jesus Christ on the cross to realize what true love is. He will help you love yourself more and find pure love with someone who loves you for who you are, not because you have shown off parts of your body. May the outpouring of grace from Christ’s Passion and Death help us to love God and love ourselves more.
Daily Reading
Saturday in the Octave of Easter
Reading 1 Acts 4:13-21 Observing the boldness of Peter and John and perceiving them to be uneducated, ordinary men, the leaders, elders, and scribes were amazed, and they recognized them…
Saint of the Day
Saint Hunna
Saint Hunna, “the Holy Washerwoman,” washed and cared for the poor in Strasbourg, earning her name through her noble acts of service.
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